pluralism

noun

plu·​ral·​ism ˈplu̇r-ə-ˌli-zəm 

1

: the holding of two or more offices or positions (such as benefices) at the same time

2

: the quality or state of being plural

3

a

: a theory that there are more than one or more than two kinds of ultimate reality

b

: a theory that reality is composed of a plurality of entities

4

a

: a state of society in which members of diverse ethnic, racial, religious, or social groups maintain and develop their traditional culture or special interest within the confines of a common civilization

b

: a concept, doctrine, or policy advocating this state

pluralist

ˈplu̇r-ə-list 

adjective or noun

pluralistic

ˌplu̇r-ə-ˈli-stik 

adjective

pluralistically

ˌplu̇r-ə-ˈli-sti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of pluralism in a Sentence

He spoke of the benefits of cultural pluralism.

She's a champion of pluralism.

Recent Examples on the Web

Opportunity pluralism aims to ensure that every individual—regardless of background—has pathways to acquiring the knowledge, networks, and personal agency needed for career success. —Bruno V. Manno, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

In governing Idlib, the group has not shown any real commitment to political pluralism. —Sam Heller, Foreign Affairs, 16 Dec. 2024

Written by Sigal Samuel, this unconventional column is based on value pluralism — the idea that each of us has multiple values that are equally valid but that often conflict with each other. —Sigal Samuel, Vox, 3 Dec. 2024

South Korea hosted the Summit for Democracy earlier this year, a confab that was supposed to demonstrate how a state previously run by military officers could transform itself into a beacon of pluralism. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1772, in the meaning defined at sense 1